Why LGBTQ+ Individuals Need a Will, & How to Plan With Pride
Every August, nonprofit groups, estate planning professionals, and organizations such as Radiant Health Centers observe National Make-A-Will Month. This annual event offers the perfect opportunity to create or update your will, protect your loved ones, and leave a lasting legacy through charitable giving. For many in the Orange County LGBTQ+ community, the occasion serves as a reminder to reflect on the future and take an important step towards ensuring your wishes are honored.
Why Wills and Estate Planning Matter
A will allows you to decide what happens to your money, property and belongings after you pass. However, a 2025 survey from Caring shows a sharp decline in the number of Americans with wills, dropping from 33% of respondents in 2022 to just 24% in 2025.
With procrastination cited as the primary reason for delaying estate planning, raising awareness of the need for a will this August is more important than ever. Having a will can reduce stress for you and your loved ones while protecting you from unintended outcomes.
Protect Your Estate, Assets and Loved Ones
Surprising to many, a will is more than a list of who inherits your belongings. Wills and estate plans are vital tools for protecting your estate, your relationships and your legacy. Individuals can name an executor to manage their estate, designate guardians for children and ensure unmarried couples, LGBTQ+ partners and chosen family aren’t excluded from inheritance. By committing to creating a will, you can achieve peace of mind during Make-a-Will Month.
Prepare for the Future With an Estate Plan
Sadly, sickness and accidents can happen to anyone at any time. At Radiant Health Centers, we are all too familiar with the challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals and families have to cope with when faced with severe disease and trauma. An advanced health care directive (living will) and durable power of attorney can provide much-needed clarity at this time, and ensure that relatives understand your wishes. It’s also important to review and update these documents periodically, particularly after life changes such as marriage, divorce, a property purchase and so on.
Leave an Impact With Charitable Giving
Large charitable donations often make the headlines, yet even a modest gift in your will can make a meaningful difference for local organizations here in Orange County and beyond. In fact, many in our community choose to support our Irvine LGBTQ+ medical clinic, helping it remain a welcoming healthcare home for everyone. Giving through a will allows you to create a legacy of pride that supports those most in need today, and helps provide care for future generations.
Become a Legacy Partner or Access Medical Care in Irvine
Contact Radiant Health Centers today if you would like to include our LGBTQ+ medical clinic in your estate plan. You can also reach out for support with HIV and STD testing, primary care, counseling services and other vital treatments. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.
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